First,to your question as to why are you at work in Virginia on this holiday?
The state of Virginia was not included under the Emancipation proclamation in 1863,neither did the Emancipation Proclamation legally free slaves or end slavery.That didn't happen until December 18Th,1865 upon ratification of the 13Th amendment to the Constitution.
Juneteeth is just another event in the long history of our country where promises were made to different groups of people and not kept. This history does not only effect the African American community but is also apart of the American Indians history.
So don't celebrate Juneteeth as a marker of deception ,but as a marker of progress on the long road to racial equality.Don't get me wrong, America still has aways to travel on that road to equality, but at least she is headed in the right direction.
Now as you listen to Michael Obama's comment of "For the first Time in my adult life I am proud of my country" you will have a better understanding of where a comment like that comes from,and what it truly means.It doesn't mean that I don't love my country.It means that time after time my country has lied to me,and it now looks that for the first time she just might be telling me the truth.
J1
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Happy Juneteenth
Wow...been gone for a while, but I'm back.
Today is June 19. To most people it's just another day, no one takes a second thought about it. However, today something did happen today.
History time:
On this day 143 years ago, slaves in Galveston, TX were informed of their freedom. At first glance this may seem like a cause for celebration and happiness, and don't get me wrong freedom is always good. But take a deeper look at it. This year is 2008. 2008 -143 = 1865. On June 19, 1865, the slaves of Galveston, TX were finally granted their freedom. If you don't see what's wrong with this, let me fill in the missing pieces. A few years earlier, a man in a top hat wrote a declaration you may have heard of. Yes, I'm talking about Abe Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation. The proclamation went into full effect on January 1, 1863. So, it took 2 1/2 years for the Texans to free their slaves. Essentially, they were the last of the bunch. Slavery was officially abolished through the ratification of the 13th amendment in on Dec. 6, 1865.
So, my question is, how to we really "celebrate" this day. This holiday is a reminder more than anything of America's refusal to let go of slavery. We should be celebrating January 1. That's when we got our freedom. I believe we should look back and remember this day, but things like this...
P.S. Apparently today is a state holiday in VA, so why am I at work?
Today is June 19. To most people it's just another day, no one takes a second thought about it. However, today something did happen today.
History time:
On this day 143 years ago, slaves in Galveston, TX were informed of their freedom. At first glance this may seem like a cause for celebration and happiness, and don't get me wrong freedom is always good. But take a deeper look at it. This year is 2008. 2008 -143 = 1865. On June 19, 1865, the slaves of Galveston, TX were finally granted their freedom. If you don't see what's wrong with this, let me fill in the missing pieces. A few years earlier, a man in a top hat wrote a declaration you may have heard of. Yes, I'm talking about Abe Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation. The proclamation went into full effect on January 1, 1863. So, it took 2 1/2 years for the Texans to free their slaves. Essentially, they were the last of the bunch. Slavery was officially abolished through the ratification of the 13th amendment in on Dec. 6, 1865.
So, my question is, how to we really "celebrate" this day. This holiday is a reminder more than anything of America's refusal to let go of slavery. We should be celebrating January 1. That's when we got our freedom. I believe we should look back and remember this day, but things like this...
(A eCard from 123Greetings.com)
Is the proud legacy remembering that America was a little bit late?
But let me leave on a good note. It's good to be free!
J2P.S. Apparently today is a state holiday in VA, so why am I at work?
Thursday, May 29, 2008
How many is too many ?
First of all, finish the question. Too many what? Too many to love, too many to feed, too many to teach, too many to pray for, too many to hope for?. What is too many, are there ever too many?
Sometimes we place our standards onto other people's actions, and call them excessive when what we are really saying is, that would be too much for me.
Sure these people have a lot of kids,and its going to take a lot time and resources to take care of them, but that is their decision to make. Back in the 1980's Eight was Enough, and in the 1960's
there was Yours Mine and OURS which equaled twelve. Maybe now that we're in the 21st century
21 will be the new number. Too many is a personal number.
J1
Sometimes we place our standards onto other people's actions, and call them excessive when what we are really saying is, that would be too much for me.
Sure these people have a lot of kids,and its going to take a lot time and resources to take care of them, but that is their decision to make. Back in the 1980's Eight was Enough, and in the 1960's
there was Yours Mine and OURS which equaled twelve. Maybe now that we're in the 21st century
21 will be the new number. Too many is a personal number.
J1
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
How many is too many?
My turn to start the discussion!
I'm gonna ease up and talk about a story that came out a couple weeks ago.
See these people, they have 17 Kids! But wait...there's more.
THEY GOT ANOTHER 1 COMIN!
How many is too many?
Back in the day, I know people had big families. My grandmother is the youngest of 13. But back then kids were working and such. Why have all of these kids now? 2/3 of them can't even drive which means they're at home all day (yes, they're home schooled).
Let me say, that I'm am not knocking this family in anyway. Visit their website, it's actually quite cool. All of the kids play instruments and they are very grounded in the Word. (Kudos!)
Yet the fact still remains...18 kids is just a little much.
Check them out: http://www.duggarfamily.com/
I'm gonna ease up and talk about a story that came out a couple weeks ago.
See these people, they have 17 Kids! But wait...there's more.
THEY GOT ANOTHER 1 COMIN!
How many is too many?
Back in the day, I know people had big families. My grandmother is the youngest of 13. But back then kids were working and such. Why have all of these kids now? 2/3 of them can't even drive which means they're at home all day (yes, they're home schooled).
Let me say, that I'm am not knocking this family in anyway. Visit their website, it's actually quite cool. All of the kids play instruments and they are very grounded in the Word. (Kudos!)
Yet the fact still remains...18 kids is just a little much.
Check them out: http://www.duggarfamily.com/
Monday, May 19, 2008
J2 this November it is quite possible that you will have the opportunity to place your vote for an African American to become President of the United States of America. Something that your Father, Grandfather nor your Great Grandfather ever had a chance to do. An opportunity to vote for someone who the U.S. Constitution at one time said was only 3/5th of a man.
I, along with your mother have tried to raise you to believe in yourself, and to embrace with pride the fact that you are a strong Black man living in America ,the greatest country on earth.
But what does the potential of an Obama Presidency really mean to you?
Is it just another election? Or does it have greater meaning for you? Have we wasted out time teaching you about all those who came before you, and the struggles they faced? Were they only doing what they were supposed to do?Do you say I didn't ask them to do it.How do you really feel about it?
J1
-------
Updated: 12:32 pm, 5/20
J2 Response:
Let me start by saying, the prospect of Obama being the candidate in my first time participating in the electoral process is truly exciting. So to answer the first question, this is not just another election. It's my 1st election, it's an election where if either Hilary or Barack gets the nomination, it's something different than two old white guys (With the exception of Kennedy, he was pretty young). This election is the chance for the next generation to make their mark, because whatever happens here affects us 15-30. Hopefully this trend of atypical candidates becomes typical because the energy surrounding the election (democratic side at least) within youth was great to experience.
Now to the good stuff. What does the potential of an Obama presidency mean? It means many things. For one, all those people selling first black president are gonna go out of business ;-) But seriously, It shows that America, as a majority, can embrace the idea of a Black Man being a leader. Yes, Malcolm and Martin were leaders, but they led those who looked like them. Barack is in the position to lead blacks, whites, jews, muslims, christians, latinos, asians, etc. On the flip side of this, Barack cannot only cater to my needs as young black man. Barack has to try and appease everyone. Take for instance the Sean Bell incident. While all other Blacks were up in arms, Barack could not join in, he had to take the political high road and say we need to respect the way of the judicial system. Nonetheless, I respect him , because he made sure not to endager himself with a foolish comment. An Obama presidency is also part of the answer to the next couple questions asked.
The possible Obama presidency is the next step in the struggles faced by previous generations. It's true that I didn't ask for anyone to do anything, however works done in the present are all for the future. Whatever I do, no matter how miniscule is only setting up the future. No one asked me, but it needs to be done. So, to answer your question...no, you have not wasted your time.
My only fear is in the failure. What happens if Barack does not win?
Readers...discuss/comment. Let us know what you think.
Peace, Love, Chicken Grease
J2
I, along with your mother have tried to raise you to believe in yourself, and to embrace with pride the fact that you are a strong Black man living in America ,the greatest country on earth.
But what does the potential of an Obama Presidency really mean to you?
Is it just another election? Or does it have greater meaning for you? Have we wasted out time teaching you about all those who came before you, and the struggles they faced? Were they only doing what they were supposed to do?Do you say I didn't ask them to do it.How do you really feel about it?
J1
-------
Updated: 12:32 pm, 5/20
J2 Response:
Let me start by saying, the prospect of Obama being the candidate in my first time participating in the electoral process is truly exciting. So to answer the first question, this is not just another election. It's my 1st election, it's an election where if either Hilary or Barack gets the nomination, it's something different than two old white guys (With the exception of Kennedy, he was pretty young). This election is the chance for the next generation to make their mark, because whatever happens here affects us 15-30. Hopefully this trend of atypical candidates becomes typical because the energy surrounding the election (democratic side at least) within youth was great to experience.
Now to the good stuff. What does the potential of an Obama presidency mean? It means many things. For one, all those people selling first black president are gonna go out of business ;-) But seriously, It shows that America, as a majority, can embrace the idea of a Black Man being a leader. Yes, Malcolm and Martin were leaders, but they led those who looked like them. Barack is in the position to lead blacks, whites, jews, muslims, christians, latinos, asians, etc. On the flip side of this, Barack cannot only cater to my needs as young black man. Barack has to try and appease everyone. Take for instance the Sean Bell incident. While all other Blacks were up in arms, Barack could not join in, he had to take the political high road and say we need to respect the way of the judicial system. Nonetheless, I respect him , because he made sure not to endager himself with a foolish comment. An Obama presidency is also part of the answer to the next couple questions asked.
The possible Obama presidency is the next step in the struggles faced by previous generations. It's true that I didn't ask for anyone to do anything, however works done in the present are all for the future. Whatever I do, no matter how miniscule is only setting up the future. No one asked me, but it needs to be done. So, to answer your question...no, you have not wasted your time.
My only fear is in the failure. What happens if Barack does not win?
Readers...discuss/comment. Let us know what you think.
Peace, Love, Chicken Grease
J2
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Time in the desert
J2 the other day when we were having bible study you mentioned that you were having a problem with religion.You pointed to the hypocrisy of the words and the actions of so called Christians in today's world.You also mentioned that this was a problem for many of your friends and especially young men.
At a time when many young men of your age are finding and exploring the boundaries of their new found freedoms and power, how difficult it its to submit to a message of submission that is preached from many pulpits today when all around you is saying do your own thing ,chart your own course for you and only you are responsible for what happens to you.
First, let me say that I too have been where are.when I was a young man in my twenties and away from home for the first time ,I had to learn to depend on myself. I struggled with the whole concept of God even though I grew up in the church as you did.
It seems to be almost a rite of passage that young men go through,and I am willing to stand with you as you go through your time to be forged in the wilderness.
As God sent Moses through the desert to be molded for the work to come he now sends you into your desert to be molded for the works he has planed for you.
j2 don't let the actions of others diminish the words of the Lord in your life,for you are right
when you say that you and only you will be held accountable for your actions in the sight of God.
J1
---------------
The J2 Response:
Spirituality vs. Religion:
This is the true topic of debate within my soul from time to time. First of all, let me say that I am a believer in the Christ Jesus and his power, please make no mistake about this. However, as was stated, sometimes the church can deter one away.
Hypocrisy is an issue I feel exists in the church, always has, probably always will. Can we call Peter the first hypocrite. Yes/No? (Comment on that). He was the gung-ho disciple yet denied Christ. Is this the problem I have? No. Peter was looking out for himself, and had he done other wise and not denied Jesus, he would've made Jesus a liar, that ain't cool. My issue with church hypocrisy is the division that has come about especially within Christianity. We all believe in the same thing, yet there are so many sub-divisions. And even within those sub-divisions, people within the same pews can't even agree. It's really upsetting when trying to bring people to Jesus, and they can sit and point out the hypocrisies that turn them away. People act one way in church, another way outside, one way on Sunday, and another on Friday.
Am I saying I'm perfect? Not at all, yet due to some of these issues, as well as personal study and observation, I have come to the main issue of Spirituality vs. Religion. In my mind, religion is the organized practice of spirituality. Religion is the traditions and practices that go with what is believed. Spirituality on the other hand is one's personal walk. Because religion gives power through it's hierarchies, and power breeds corruption (sometimes), the possibility occurs that religion brings corruption. Someone in power can take advantage of those following them. Religion causes some people to put up a front, to fit the mold of what the religious traditions call for. At times it becomes unsettling.
So, what have I decided. First, I am in no way separating myself from the church. Even with it's periodic hypocrisies, without it, I could not strengthen my spirituality. My spirituality is based in the fact that Jesus died for me and that the Holy Spirit now resides in me. Holy Spirit = Spirituality. I now know what I need to do and my journey is my journey. I'm sure there are some holes in my description, but dad this is my answer. And readers, please comment and let us know your feelings.
But just like my facebook says: God and I know where each other at, like we got boost mobile.
So to sum it up, watch below. (God = Green, Me = Orange)
-----J2
At a time when many young men of your age are finding and exploring the boundaries of their new found freedoms and power, how difficult it its to submit to a message of submission that is preached from many pulpits today when all around you is saying do your own thing ,chart your own course for you and only you are responsible for what happens to you.
First, let me say that I too have been where are.when I was a young man in my twenties and away from home for the first time ,I had to learn to depend on myself. I struggled with the whole concept of God even though I grew up in the church as you did.
It seems to be almost a rite of passage that young men go through,and I am willing to stand with you as you go through your time to be forged in the wilderness.
As God sent Moses through the desert to be molded for the work to come he now sends you into your desert to be molded for the works he has planed for you.
j2 don't let the actions of others diminish the words of the Lord in your life,for you are right
when you say that you and only you will be held accountable for your actions in the sight of God.
J1
---------------
The J2 Response:
Spirituality vs. Religion:
This is the true topic of debate within my soul from time to time. First of all, let me say that I am a believer in the Christ Jesus and his power, please make no mistake about this. However, as was stated, sometimes the church can deter one away.
Hypocrisy is an issue I feel exists in the church, always has, probably always will. Can we call Peter the first hypocrite. Yes/No? (Comment on that). He was the gung-ho disciple yet denied Christ. Is this the problem I have? No. Peter was looking out for himself, and had he done other wise and not denied Jesus, he would've made Jesus a liar, that ain't cool. My issue with church hypocrisy is the division that has come about especially within Christianity. We all believe in the same thing, yet there are so many sub-divisions. And even within those sub-divisions, people within the same pews can't even agree. It's really upsetting when trying to bring people to Jesus, and they can sit and point out the hypocrisies that turn them away. People act one way in church, another way outside, one way on Sunday, and another on Friday.
Am I saying I'm perfect? Not at all, yet due to some of these issues, as well as personal study and observation, I have come to the main issue of Spirituality vs. Religion. In my mind, religion is the organized practice of spirituality. Religion is the traditions and practices that go with what is believed. Spirituality on the other hand is one's personal walk. Because religion gives power through it's hierarchies, and power breeds corruption (sometimes), the possibility occurs that religion brings corruption. Someone in power can take advantage of those following them. Religion causes some people to put up a front, to fit the mold of what the religious traditions call for. At times it becomes unsettling.
So, what have I decided. First, I am in no way separating myself from the church. Even with it's periodic hypocrisies, without it, I could not strengthen my spirituality. My spirituality is based in the fact that Jesus died for me and that the Holy Spirit now resides in me. Holy Spirit = Spirituality. I now know what I need to do and my journey is my journey. I'm sure there are some holes in my description, but dad this is my answer. And readers, please comment and let us know your feelings.
But just like my facebook says: God and I know where each other at, like we got boost mobile.
So to sum it up, watch below. (God = Green, Me = Orange)
-----J2
Friday, May 16, 2008
And So It Begins...
Good Morning Ladies and Gents!
This is Jefferi. I am the younger of the two Jefferi's as my dad is also Jefferi (thus the name of the blog). From here out, I will refer to myself as J2 as to differentiate myself. I want to welcome you to the site.
So...what is this site about?
Well, this site is the brainchild of lunch in New York's Penn Station. We were sitting around when my dad said, "Why don't we start a blog?"One thing led to another and here we are. This blog will reflect our feelings of all happenings in society. We're gonna talk about everything from sports, to politics, to music, to whatever else this world can throw at us. I'm gonna give my feelings and my dad will post his. It's kind of a generational dialog. And feel free to join in at any time.
A little background on me-
Age: 21
Occupation: Student @ Georgia Tech
Ethnicity: African-American
Location: The DMV (DC, MD, VA Area...You only need my general location).
Hopefully, by reading the blog you can learn more about me and my dad, who will be posting later.
So, stay tuned for more to come.
Peace, Love, and Chicken Grease
This is Jefferi. I am the younger of the two Jefferi's as my dad is also Jefferi (thus the name of the blog). From here out, I will refer to myself as J2 as to differentiate myself. I want to welcome you to the site.
So...what is this site about?
Well, this site is the brainchild of lunch in New York's Penn Station. We were sitting around when my dad said, "Why don't we start a blog?"One thing led to another and here we are. This blog will reflect our feelings of all happenings in society. We're gonna talk about everything from sports, to politics, to music, to whatever else this world can throw at us. I'm gonna give my feelings and my dad will post his. It's kind of a generational dialog. And feel free to join in at any time.
A little background on me-
Age: 21
Occupation: Student @ Georgia Tech
Ethnicity: African-American
Location: The DMV (DC, MD, VA Area...You only need my general location).
Hopefully, by reading the blog you can learn more about me and my dad, who will be posting later.
So, stay tuned for more to come.
Peace, Love, and Chicken Grease
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